Best Time To Visit Europe
Save hundreds on your next flight with deals on highly rated airlines.
Flights to Europe overview
Going searches for the best fares and sends members deals bookable 1-12 months in advance. Going members save approximately 33% compared to normal flight prices to Europe.
Cheapest Going deal
Average price roundtrip
Average Going deal price roundtrip
Best month to fly
Going found the most deals with travel dates in January.
Worst month to fly
Going found the least deals with travel dates in June.
Best time to travel to Europe: quick answers
From a summer vacation on the Mediterranean beaches to a winter getaway among the famous Christmas markets, Europe is a dream destination year-round. Still, the best time to visit this continent depends on what kind of trip you’re going for, who you are traveling with, and what your budget is.
Here’s a simple breakdown of the best times to visit Europe based on weather, prices, and tourist seasons, with top expert tips for finding cheap flights to the old continent and planning your trip without overspending.
Best month to visit Europe
There is no best month to visit Europe—it all depends on what kind of trip you’re planning. However, if you want the perfect balance of good weather, affordable prices, and fewer crowds, May and September are widely considered ideal for most travelers.
In May, you get spring blooms in cities like Paris and Amsterdam, comfortable temperatures for hiking in the Swiss Alps, and beach weather starting in Southern Europe, including Greece, Portugal, and Spain.
September is equally great, with warm Mediterranean waters, fall foliage in Central and Northern Europe, and the wine harvest season in regions like Tuscany, Bordeaux, and Douro Valley.
Best time of year to visit Europe
The best overall time to visit Europe is late spring (April–June) and early fall (September–October). These shoulder seasons offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists. During these times, you avoid the summer rush, but ideal temperatures remain, making it perfect for sightseeing, outdoor adventures, and cultural festivals.
Best time to visit Europe for good weather
May to September is generally considered an ideal time to visit Europe. Coastal regions like the Greek Islands, Amalfi Coast, and French Riviera shine from June to September, while destinations in Scandinavia and Eastern Europe are perfect in July and August when the weather is warmest.
Best time to visit Europe to avoid crowds
Most European countries are popular choices among travelers year-round. Still, you can find fewer tourist crowds during the off-season (November–March). Destinations like Portugal and Southern Italy still offer mild winter weather, making them a good option for the off-season.
Best time for outdoor activities
May, June, and September are perfect for hiking, cycling, and exploring nature. The Alps and Dolomites offer great trekking opportunities in the summer, while Norway’s fjords are a beautiful destination from late spring to early fall.
Best time for families
Families traveling with kids should aim for June (before peak summer crowds) or September (after school starts in most of Europe). These months offer a great balance of good weather and more affordable prices, making them ideal for family-friendly adventures.
Theme parks like Disneyland Paris and PortAventura in Spain have fewer visitors during fall, which means shorter wait times and a more enjoyable experience for children. September also allows families to explore iconic cities like Rome, London, and Amsterdam with fewer tourists, making sightseeing more manageable with kids.
Best time for couples
March and September are the ideal months for lovebirds to explore Europe without the overwhelming crowds. In March, Paris is starting to bloom, making it an idyllic setting for strolling through one of the many gardens this city has to offer, such as Jardin du Luxembourg or Jardin des Plantes.
In September, the Tuscany wine harvest offers an unforgettable experience for couples, and the Amalfi Coast and Greek Islands also see fewer visitors, allowing for more intimate experiences.
Which months are best for a long Europe tour?
If you’re planning an extended Europe trip, April to June and September to October are the best months. These shoulder seasons allow travelers to explore multiple destinations with mild weather, cheaper costs, and fewer tourists.
If you start in Northern Europe—such as Scandinavia or the UK— September allows you to enjoy crisp autumn weather before heading south in October to warmer destinations like Italy, Croatia, and Turkey.
For fall travelers, consider Southern European destinations like Portugal, Spain, and Greece as a starting point. These countries have warm temperatures as early as April. By May and June, Central Europe—including Germany, Austria, and Switzerland—is at its best.
When is Europe’s peak season?
The peak season runs from June to August, with July being the busiest month. This is when Europe’s top destinations—like Paris, Rome, London, and Barcelona—are at their most crowded, leading to higher accommodation prices and long lines at major attractions. Beach destinations, such as the French Riviera, Amalfi Coast, and Greek Islands, are also in full swing at this time.
If you’re traveling during peak season, consider visiting lesser-known destinations like Albania’s Riviera, Montenegro’s coastal towns, or the Azores for a more relaxed experience.
When is Europe’s off-season?
The off-season lasts from November to March, when flights and hotels are at their lowest prices. This is the best time for budget-conscious travelers who want to explore major European cities with fewer tourists and discounted rates.
When is Europe’s shoulder season?
The shoulder seasons—April to June and September to October—offer a perfect balance of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and better prices. These months are ideal for exploring Europe without the stress of peak-season travel.
In spring, outdoor activities, such as hiking in the Swiss Alps or biking through the countryside in Tuscany, are perfect. In fall, on the other hand, destinations like Provence, Bavaria, and the Scottish Highlands are stunning with autumn foliage, and wine lovers can experience the grape harvest season in France, Italy, and Portugal.
When to visit Europe: month-by-month recommendations guide
| Month | Climate | Best cities to visit & why | Average roundtrip flight cost | Average roundtrip Going deals | Average accommodation cost |
| January–February | January:
February:
| January: Reykjavik, Iceland Ideal for northern lights and glacier hikes Vienna, Austria Fewer tourists, cozy cafes, and winter charm Zermatt, Switzerland Top ski destination with breathtaking alpine views February: Venice, Italy Carnival season with unique masquerade balls Innsbruck, Austria Perfect for skiing and snowboarding in the Alps Barcelona, Spain Mild winter weather and fewer crowds | January:
February:
| January:
February:
| January: $50–$150 per night February: $40–$130 per night |
| March–April | March:
April:
| March: Paris, France Blossoms bloom in parks and gardens Amsterdam, Netherlands Tulip season starts, and Keukenhof Gardens open Kraków, Poland Cheap flights, rich history, and cozy Old Town charm April: Lisbon, Portugal Perfect for sightseeing with comfortable temperatures Brussels, Belgium Ideal time to explore art and culture Rome, Italy Fewer tourists before the summer rush | March:
April:
| March:
April:
| March: $30–$120 per night April: $40–$140 per night |
| May–June | May:
June:
| May: Athens, Greece Sunny and warm, but without peak summer crowds Budapest, Hungary Great for boat cruises on the Danube Cinque Terre, Italy Ideal for hiking and coastal views June: Barcelona, Spain Beach season begins Stockholm, Sweden Midsummer celebrations Santorini, Greece Whitewashed villages and stunning sunsets | May:
June:
| May:
June:
| May: $50–$160 per night June: $60–$180 per night |
| July–August | July:
August:
| July: Nice, France The French Riviera at its finest Dubrovnik, Croatia Best for beach days and island hopping Copenhagen, Denmark Perfect weather for biking around the city August: Mykonos, Greece Enjoy beach parties and vibrant nightlife Edinburgh, Scotland Escape the hot summer of Southern Europe and enjoy the various large-scale festivals Berlin, Germany Amazing outdoor events and beer gardens | July:
August:
| July:
August:
| July: $70–$200 per night August: $80–$220 per night
|
| September-October | September:
October:
| September: Munich, Germany Oktoberfest begins Seville, Spain Explore historic sites without the intense heat of summer Prague, Czech Republic Perfect weather for walking tours October: Tuscany, Italy Best time for wine harvest festivals Transylvania, Romania Spend Halloween in Dracula’s homeland Madrid, Spain Cultural festivals and mild weather | September:
October:
| September:
October:
| September: $50–$150 per night October: $45–$130 per night
|
| November-December | November:
December:
| November: Vienna, Austria Christmas markets begin Warsaw, Poland Fewer tourists and low-cost travel Istanbul, Turkey Pleasant weather and historical sites December: Nuremberg, Germany One of Europe’s best Christmas markets Rovaniemi, Finland Meet Santa Claus at his official home and enjoy a winter wonderland London, UK Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park and special Christmas events | November:
December:
| November:
December:
| November: $40–$100 per night December: $70–$200 per night
|
What is the cheapest time to go to Europe?
Best time to fly to Europe for cheap
The best time to score cheap flights to Europe is typically during the off-season, which runs from January through early March and October to early December. During these months, demand is lower, so you can find better deals.
To make the most out of your money, booking your flights 2 to 8 months in advance is key. For summer travel, aim for the higher end of that range. Start tracking prices for your flight with Going’s travel membership trial to stay ahead of price changes and secure the best fares.
Download the Going app and start saving on your next European adventure!
How to save on flights to Europe: 5 tips
1. Book during off-peak times
There is no best time to book a flight, as deals can come up at any time. We suggest booking in the opposite season. A good plan is to fly to Europe during the off-season—winter (except Christmas and New Year’s Eve) and late fall—which tends to be much cheaper than traveling during the busy summer months. Airlines drop fares to attract passengers when demand is lower.
2. Fly into alternative European airports
Major European hubs like London (Heathrow), Paris (Charles de Gaulle), and Amsterdam (Schiphol) can sometimes have higher fares than nearby secondary airports. For example, instead of flying into Rome, consider Milan, or Brussels instead of Paris, to cut costs.
Many budget carriers, like Ryanair and Wizz Air, operate from smaller airports, which tend to have lower landing fees, making flights cheaper. Once in Europe, high-speed trains and regional flights make it easy to connect to your final destination.
3. Use budget airlines for short flights
When booking multi-city European trips, using budget airlines instead of full-service carriers like Lufthansa or British Airways can significantly reduce expenses. Europe’s low-cost airlines—Ryanair, easyJet, Wizz Air, and Vueling—offer flights between major cities for as little as $20–$50 one-way.
However, extra fees for baggage, seat selection, and check-in of these carriers can increase the price of your flights.
4. Track prices for major European routes
Setting price alerts is essential for scoring cheap flights. Sites like Skyscanner and Momondo allow travelers to monitor fares and get notified when prices drop. Going, however, takes it a step further by sending expert-curated deals that save members an average of $500 on international flights.
5. Opt for multi-city flights
Rather than booking a roundtrip ticket to one city, travelers can save by booking multi-city (open-jaw) flights. For example, flying into London and out of Amsterdam can sometimes be cheaper than a standard roundtrip fare.
Sign up, choose your home airport, and start receiving flight deal alerts.
When is the best time to save on accommodation
The cheapest time to book hotels in Europe is between November and March, with the exception of Christmas and New Year’s Eve. During these months, hotel rates in major cities like Paris, London, and Rome drop significantly compared to summer.
An easy way to save even more is by staying outside city centers or booking accommodations with flexible cancellation policies. This way, you can rebook if rates drop or you find a better option. Sometimes, a good deal on accommodation is worth a short train ride or a longer walk to the main attractions.
7 extra tips for a budget-friendly adventure in Europe
1. Explore Eastern Europe
Countries like Poland, Hungary, Romania, and Bulgaria are much cheaper than Western Europe while offering stunning landscapes, rich history, and unique cultural experiences. Cities like Kraków, Budapest, and Sofia provide affordable accommodations, meals, and attractions.
2. Take advantage of free walking tours
Many major cities offer free walking tours, which are a great way to explore landmarks while learning from local guides. Cities like Berlin, Madrid, and Prague have well-rated free tours (tips optional but appreciated).
3. Visit local markets for meals
Instead of dining at touristy restaurants, shopping at local markets for fresh bread, cheese, and produce can save travelers significant money. Mercado de San Miguel (Madrid) and Naschmarkt (Vienna) are fantastic budget-friendly options.
4. Book train tickets in advance for cheaper rates
European train tickets can be 50% cheaper when booked in advance. Sites like Trainline and Omio offer discounts on early bookings for trains between major cities like Paris, Amsterdam, and Berlin.
5. Stay outside major cities
As we just mentioned, hotels in central London, Paris, and Rome can be expensive as they provide easy access to major attractions and transport options. Staying outside city centers and using public transport saves money without sacrificing convenience. Besides, these accommodations tend to offer more comfortable spaces and a better taste of local life.
6. Use local apps for budget-friendly travel
Travel apps can significantly cut costs while improving your travel experience in Europe. BlaBlaCar, a popular ridesharing service, allows travelers to book affordable carpooling options with locals driving between cities—often at prices lower than train or bus tickets.
If you're looking for cheap long-distance travel, FlixBus and Eurolines offer budget-friendly bus routes across the continent. They connect major cities and smaller towns for a fraction of the price of trains or flights.
For navigating public transport efficiently, apps like Citymapper and Moovit provide real-time transit updates, including metro, tram, and bus schedules, ensuring you never overpay for transportation. If you plan to explore a city by bike or scooter, opt for services like Lime, Voi, and Donkey Republic.
7. Take advantage of city passes
Many cities offer all-inclusive passes that grant free or discounted entry to museums, historic sites, and public transportation. Options like the Paris Pass, Rome City Pass, and Berlin WelcomeCard can save money on sightseeing and are especially valuable in major capitals, where individual attraction tickets add up quickly.
Before buying a city pass, add up the price of the attractions you will visit to ensure the pass is the right choice for your trip.
Frequently asked questions about flying to Europe
When is high season in Europe?
Europe’s high season is, generally speaking, the summer months of June-August. In many popular cities and countries, though, the high season has spread into May and September, too. Summer means warm weather (sometimes it’s downright hot, especially as you go south), and there are dozens of summer events and festivals throughout Europe that take advantage of nice summer weather.
In some parts of Europe, the Christmas and New Year holidays are a mini-high season in the middle of winter, too. This is especially true where there are famous holiday markets or celebrations.
What is the rainy season in Europe?
The rainy season varies by region, but in general, Western and Central Europe experience the most rain from September to November. Southern Europe, including Spain, Portugal, and Greece, has drier winters but sees more rain in the spring months of March and April.
What is the prettiest season in Europe?
Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) are often considered the most beautiful seasons. Spring brings blooming flowers, festivals, and mild temperatures, while autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage and harvest festivals in wine regions like Tuscany and Bordeaux.
When is the best time to visit Europe?
Europe is big enough that the weather can vary quite a bit, so the best time to go depends on where you want to be. Generally speaking, though, the shoulder seasons of March-May and September-November tend to offer a nice mix of pleasant weather, smaller crowds, and lower prices.
How many airports are there in Europe?
There are thousands of airports of varying size and busyness throughout Europe, and every European country has one main international airport through which the majority of visitors arrive. Some countries have several of these international gateways.
Some of the busiest international airports in Europe are London’s Heathrow (LHR), Paris’ Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Amsterdam’s Schiphol (AMS), Iceland’s Keflavik (KEF), Milan’s Malpensa (MXP), Frankfurt Airport (FRA), Munich Airport (MUC), Madrid’s Barajas (MAD), Barcelona’s El Prat (BCN), and Rome’s Fiumicino (FCO).
The European cities for which we most frequently see deals are Paris, Amsterdam, Madrid, Milan, Rome, Barcelona, London, Frankfurt, Zurich, and Munich.
Which country in Europe is the easiest to get to?
There are international airports in every European country, but the countries that traditionally see more (and cheaper) nonstop flights from the US on a regular basis are Western European nations like England, France, Germany, Spain, Netherlands, Portugal, and Italy.
There isn’t a hard and fast rule about this, however, so it’s always a good idea to check fares from multiple departure airports as well as multiple potential European airports.
Which country or city in Europe is the shortest flight from the US?
This very much depends on where you start in the United States—but if we’re just talking about the very shortest possible flights to Europe, that’s a flight from Boston to Reykjavik, which is just over five hours.
After that, the airports in Ireland (Dublin and Shannon) and England (London’s multiple international airports) will usually offer the shortest flight times from the eastern part of the United States.
Which country in Europe has the most direct flights from the US?
As mentioned, countries like England, France, Germany, Spain, Netherlands, and Italy tend to have more direct flights from the United States. Because of their proximity to the continental US, however, countries like Iceland and Ireland have more direct flights than you might otherwise expect. The further west you go in the US, the fewer direct flights you’ll find to Europe.
What are the rules for traveling with pets to Europe?
The rules regarding traveling with pets from the US to Europe vary widely depending on which European country you’ll be visiting. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has details about every country in Europe’s rules about bringing an animal with you, so it’s important to look into the specific country’s requirements.
It’s also important to note that the CDC has a temporary ban in place for dogs coming into the US from countries deemed at high risk for dog rabies, so be sure to check that list of countries before you take Rover on an overseas adventure. And you’ll also need to check with your airline, since airlines set their own rules for flying with animals.
How long is the flight to Europe?
Flights from the US to Europe vary a great deal in duration, depending on where you’re flying from and where you’re flying to.
As mentioned above, the shortest flight is from Boston to Reykjavik at around 5.25 hours—but if you’re flying nonstop from Los Angeles to London, that’s a 10.5-hour flight. And, of course, any itinerary that involves layovers will add hours to your travel day.
How many days is enough for a Europe tour?
The ideal trip to Europe depends on the number of destinations. A 10- to 14-day itinerary is great for visiting three or four cities, while a month-long trip allows for deeper exploration. For those on a budget, staying longer in one region (like the Balkans or Eastern Europe) reduces transportation costs.
Going helps you find flight deals to Europe and save big. Try Going Premium today.
Number of deals
Total to Europe in the last month
Total Mistake Fares
Airline slip-ups we've caught to Europe
Fly to countries in Europe
- Albania
- Austria
- Belarus
- Belgium
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Czechia
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Faroe Islands
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Jersey
- Kosovo
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Macedonia
- Malta
- Moldova
- Montenegro
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Russia
- Serbia
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Ukraine
- United Kingdom
Never overpay on flights again.
40-90% off flights.
Most members save an average of $550 on international economy flights and $200 on domestic.
Destinations across the globe.
We send flight alerts to over 180 airports in the US for over 900 destinations around the world.
Deals for highly rated airlines.
We prioritize the best itineraries on the best airlines. If it's not an amazing deal, we won't send it.
Become a cheap flight expert
* Prices are per person and include all taxes & fees in USD. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing, however, prices are not guaranteed, as airline pricing can change by the minute. Average Going fares are based on average prices of deals found by Going.